Russell Lights - Vol 10 Issue 3 - Feb 2007

Raupo Cape

Not all the treasures in the Russell Museum are historic. This beautiful rain cape was made in 2000 by Nikki Lawrence, a Far North weaver. It is a metre wide, .75 metre deep with plaited ties and made of Raupo (bullrush).

Rain capes were one of the earliest types of cape, made for protection from the elements. They are relatively quick to produce as contrasted with fine korowai cloaks. Usually made of Harakeke, Ti or Kiekie, they were weather proof and durable.

 

 

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